Many exciting touring opportunities exists for cyclists of all abilities. Bike paths connecting various parts of Montpelier and other areas of Central Vermont have recently been constructed or are in the planning stages.

Maps are available from Capitol Stationers at 54 Main Street in Montpelier (802-223-2393).

Canoeing
Canoeing the Winooski River is a popular pastime. A seven mile stretch begins at the Lower State Street river entry area and ends at the first falls in Middlesex. Improvements to this canoe access is one of the many features that will be found in the new Gateway Park (see map below). At certain times of the year, canoeists can paddle up or down the North Branch. South of the city, the Winooski River offers some challenging white water experiences. Cross Country & Downhill Skiing - Snowshoeing

Trails abound for cross country skiing in Hubbard and North Branch River Parks. The creation of a cross country ski trail which would encircle the City and meander throughout its scenic areas is currently being planned. Many private resorts in the area offer cross country skiing at a modest rate. There are many downhill and cross country ski areas within an easy drive of Montpelier.

More information about Hubbard Park and North Branch Park, including maps, is on the Montpelier Parks page of this website.

Dog River Recreation Field
The Dog River Recreation Area, located on Dog River Road (see map above) across from the Public Works Garage, has softball fields where summer leagues are held, and serves as a soccer field for the youth program in the fall. There are picnic tables and a couple of grills near the river for small get-togethers.Golf

The Montpelier Elks Country Club is a nine hole course built in 1903, located off of US Route 2. It is open to the public from April 15 to November 15. For exact fees and yardage, please call the course at (802) 223-7457.

Surprisingly rich hikes in the city can be found in Hubbard and North Branch Parks. Whether you're interested in a short hike on your lunch break, or would like to take a river walk with kids, the trails at the North Branch Nature Center - http://www.northbranchnaturecenter.org/ - are just the thing. Over 100 species of birds have been spotted, as well as a variety of wildlife such as frogs, butterflies and dragonflies. The nature trails are always open, and there is a guided trail brochure at the Kiosk.

More information about Hubbard Park and North Branch Park, including maps, is available on the Montpelier Parks page of this website.

The Central Vermont region is nationally renowned for its hiking opportunities. The region offers many hikes for all abilities, including several hikeable peaks of over 4,000 feet in elevation. The Montpelier Section of the Green Mountain Club schedules frequent outings throughout the area and beyond to match any season; most are available members and non-members alike. Visit the Green Mountain Club headquarters on Route 100 in nearby Waterbury for more information on hiking in Central Vermont.

Located on Elm Street, this park offers something for people of all ages: swim in the municipal pool, play basketball on the lighted, full court with six baskets; play volleyball or baseball on the courts and fields; play tennis; or picnic along the North Branch River. The Skateboard Park is the newest feature and is very popular.

Sightseeing
The rural landscape, historic villages, and area attractions offer breathtaking views and charming experiences, whether by bike, foot, car, or horse. The Horn of the Moon Auto Tour - http://www.central-vt.com/visit/autotour/auto2.htm - is a short, but very scenic tour of the hill country surrounding Montpelier, where one will find beautiful views of the unspoiled Worcester Range as well as a most interesting view of Montpelier.

Snowmobiling

Trails for the snow traveler exist in, through, and around the city. Snowmobiles are allowed in North Branch River Park, but on the main trail only. The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) has spent over a million dollars on trail grooming, maintenance and construction in order to provide more than 5,000 miles of trail network throughout the state and to assure riders a good experience.

VAST trail maps are available at locations throughout the community and by contacting VAST at (802) 229-0005. Further information about VAST is available at: http://www.vtvast.org